Safety
At Wild Whimsy Forest School, safety is paramount in all our outdoor adventures. With a steadfast commitment to our students' well-being, we've developed comprehensive safety protocols to ensure a secure environment for learning and play, come rain or shine. Our vigilant staff monitors weather conditions closely, promptly adjusting plans to prioritize safety at all times. Our entire team maintains current CPR and First Aid certification. Some are Wilderness First Responders. Rest assured, we strictly adhere to Washington State standards for child safety, providing peace of mind for parents and families entrusting their children to our care.
Risky Play: We embrace the importance of outdoor play and the inherent risks it may entail, such as climbing trees and exploring with sticks and rocks. Our teachers are trained to supervise and advise children engaging in these activities, emphasizing safe play techniques and rules during both group and individual interactions. Boundaries are established to ensure a clear delineation of play spaces, with visual aids and engaging activities employed to reinforce these boundaries regularly. Through a thorough risk-benefit analysis, we select play sites that offer enriching opportunities while prioritizing safety. When it comes to tree climbing, specific policies are in place to mitigate risks, including close adult supervision, adherence to safety guidelines, and consideration of tree size and health. By nurturing a culture of responsible risk-taking and providing guidance and support, we empower our students to explore, learn, and grow confidently in the great outdoors.
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Inclement Weather Policy: Ensuring the safety of our students is our top priority at Wild Whimsy Forest School. We closely follow the Seattle Public Schools for inclement weather updates, communicating any changes to our schedule promptly to families at least 2 hours before class starts. We also boast an inclement weather policy that protects us from high winds, extreme temperatures, or smoke without requiring a school closure. Our field trip component also acts as the inclement weather plan. The parent handbook details more, but unless roads are unsafe, we are likely to stay open and shift plans for the weather.
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Safety Protocols: In the event of fallen branches, lightning, or strong winds, our staff is trained to prioritize student safety. We adhere to strict protocols, including evacuation procedures and seeking shelter when necessary. Teachers are equipped with First Aid training and CPR certification, ensuring immediate response to any emergencies. Moreover, we implement Cold & Heat Exposure management strategies, monitoring weather conditions to protect students from extreme temperatures and providing appropriate care as needed.
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Parental Assurance: At Wild Whimsy, we want parents and families to feel confident in their child's safety year-round. Our comprehensive Safety policy reflects our commitment to year-round outdoor education while prioritizing the well-being of our students. Through proactive measures and responsive actions, we ensure a secure and enriching learning environment where children can thrive, regardless of the weather conditions. Our parent handbook details each scenario we may experience and how we handle them.